(Photo by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

The third annual Countdown to Commencement was held Tuesday, Feb. 27 at Shawnee State University in the lobby of the University Center. The event sponsored by offices on campus and the campus bookstore helps graduating students prepare for graduation by providing them the opportunity to order caps and gowns, graduation announcements and more.

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(Article by: Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

            The Shawnee State University Office of Development has announced the appointment of three new members to the SSU Development Foundation Board:
            Brian Noble; Robert Smith; and Debra Esham
            “We are happy to have them,” said Susan Warsaw, development foundation director. “Over the years, each of the members chosen to work with the Foundation have different strengths to bring to us. Two things that remain constant are their dedication to the university and our students and our appreciation of their hard work to raise friends and funds for SSU.”
            Noble, of Wheelersburg, is the president and CEO of Oak Hill Financial Insurance Agency, a subsidiary of Oak Hill Financial. Before working at Oak Hill, Noble spent 17 years as the owner and operator of the Noble group. He started the group in 1985 as an insurance agency group with multiple locations.
            Noble also served as an Allstate agent for seven years and spent three years as an area sales manager for Allstate. While in that position, he was responsible for 13 counties and 22 regions. In 2004, Noble won Allstate’s coveted Agency of the Year award for the North Central Region, which includes Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. He also received an invitation to the company’s Inner Circle Conference, an honor enjoyed by only two percent of the company’s agencies.
            Noble attended Tennessee Temple University and Shawnee State University. He is excited to be named to the Development Foundation Board.
            “Shawnee State University is one of the bright spots of our community and I’m excited to be able to help out anyway I can,” Noble said.
            Robert Smith of Portsmouth is the president, CEO and director of American Savings Bank. He is very active in the community and currently serves as the treasurer of the Southern Ohio Growth Partnership. He is the president of the Ohio Bankers League and a member of the board of the Ohio Bankers Services.
            Smith is the past president of the Portsmouth Kiwanis Club, a member of the SSU President’s Club and a past president of the SSU Development Foundation. He said he is glad to once again serve on the Development Foundation Board.
            “I’ll do anything I can to help the university, it’s a growing part of the community. I don’t know what we would do without the university,” Smith said. “The Development Foundation is here to help the university raise money to grow and I plan to do anything I can to make that happen.”
            Debra Esham is the office manager for her husband, Dr. George Esham. She received a BSN from the University of South Alabama and an R.N. degree from the Mastin School of Nursing.
            “I am very honored to be asked to serve on the Development Foundation Board,” Esham said. “Shawnee State University is an important part of our community as an employer and educator and it makes such a huge cultural contribution to our community.”
            Esham, also is active in the community and serves on the Scioto Foundation, the Southern Ohio Light Opera and the Second Presbyterian Church Foundation Board.
           Members of the SSU Development Foundation Board serve three year terms and can serve two consecutive terms.
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(Article and photo by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

Nearly 150 students from six area technical schools in Pike, Scioto and Lawrence counties took part in the 2006 Tech Prep Showcase at Shawnee State University on Mar. 2. Each student or group of students gave a presentation on a professional field that interests them.

Pictured: Cindy Neal of Franklin Furnace, a senior at Collins Career Center with judges Trooper Nate Lawson and Darin Cox, Criminal Justice teacher of Scioto County Joint Vocational School.

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(Photo by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

Shanna Mustard, a senior at Shawnee State University reads an essay during at the first Women’s History month event on campus on Thursday, March 1. Essays written by students Alisha Ferguson and Stephanie Davis-Steward were also read during the event entitled “Coming of Age.”

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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

            Are you looking for the job of your dreams?
            Come to the Career Expo on Tuesday, Mar. 13, in the James A. Rhodes Athletic Center at SSU.
            “This career expo is focused primarily toward our students at Shawnee State University and those who have obtained degrees from Shawnee State University,” said Steve Gregory, director of SSU’s Office of Career Services.
            The event will feature the following employers throughout the region who will be conducting interviews with prospective employees:

            · Camp Molly Lauman Girl Scouts

            · Fifth Third Bank

            · HealthSouth Western Hill Rehab

            · Jewish Hosptial

            · Meadowview Regional Medical Center

            · Nifco

            · OhioHealth

            · Pike Community Hosptial

            · Plastipak Packaging

            · Portsmouth City Schools

            · Progressive Step Rehab

            · Raceland Worthington Independent Schools

            · Sciotoville Community Schools

            · Sojourners

            · South Central Educational Service Center

            · Southern Ohio Medical Center

            · Stanley Electric US Co. Inc.

            · Weastec

            · Wellston City Schools

            “The Career Expo provides participants not only the opportunity for possible employment but it also gives participants a great opportunity to network with different employers,” Gregory said. “They get to put resumes into the hands of an employer representative who will remember them. Students also get the opportunity to interview, to gain practice interviewing and that is invaluable.”
            More than 60 other employers will have displays on the gym floor and speak with students informally.
            Interviews will take place on the mezzanine level of the athletic center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There are full-time, part-time and seasonal positions, as well as internships available. Students who want to interview with employers must sign up in the office of career services before Mar. 9. A resume must be provided for each interview scheduled.
            “The main goal is to provide current and former students with the opportunity for employment opportunities and internships,” Gregory said. “It’s an excellent opportunity for them to meet several different employers in the same setting in the same day. Employers benefit because they have the chance to interview many candidates in one place at one time. I think we do a good job accommodating them and I think that’s why they come back.”
            The Office of Career Services also provides help to students preparing or updating a resume.
            The Career Expo is sponsored by the SSU Office of Career Services. For more information about this event or services offered through career services, call (740) 351-3213.

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            There has been a lot of media publicity lately regarding the release of several new products from Microsoft. Microsoft’s new operating system - Vista, Microsoft Office 2007, and the previously released Internet Explorer 7.0 are getting significant attention these days and UIS would like to share our projected migration plans with you. We invite you to provide us with feedback regarding this proposed plan. We are aware this migration will impact everyone, but it will especially impact the teaching and learning environment for many of you, so we invite your thoughts on the matter.
            Vista: Microsoft released a new operating system - Vista, this winter. UIS is not planning to begin a migration until 2008. Once we do begin the migration, it will be a phased migration that will be gradually implemented working in tandem with the UTAC Computer Replacement Schedule and the faculty/staff replacement schedule. There are several reasons we intend to wait, the most important ones include:
            1. Hardware Requirements of Vista: This operating system has very stringent hardware requirements. Many of the lab and office computer systems currently on campus do not meet these requirements and therefore would either fail to operate or would have extremely poor performance. As we replace systems through our regular replacement schedule, we will ensure they are Vista-ready.
            2. Microsoft Campus Agreement is currently in negotiations: The Ohio IUC is currently in negotiations with Microsoft for the renewal of the Microsoft Campus Agreement for all state-funded schools including Shawnee State. The results of these negotiations will impact the cost for license upgrades the University may or may not have to pay to license existing student, faculty and staff systems.
            3. Newness of the product. The operating system is vital to daily operations. As with any new product release, UIS prefers to wait several months before placing the software into production so we can wait to see what problems may arise from the new version. Since this is a new operating system, bugs, security holes, or incompatibility issues could adversely effect daily operations for everyone. When dealing with something like an operating system we prefer to be even more cautious to ensure everyone is able to keep their systems up and running.
            4. Software application incompatibilities: There are many software applications that Shawnee State University uses around campus, in both the offices and the labs. It is necessary to investigate and test each software package we use with Vista before we proceed with any migration. As we are testing, we may be in contact with you if your department uses special software or if you use discipline-specific software in your classes so that you can participate in the testing of your applications to ensure they are working properly.
            Internet Explorer 7.0: Microsoft’s latest release of Internet Explorer has been out for quite some time. The standard applications used on campus and the discipline-specific applications all need to be tested for compatibility with Explorer 7.0 in order to avoid conflicts which could cause applications to fail to operate if Internet Explorer 7.0 were deployed. Internet Explorer 7.0 is integrated into the Vista Operating System so at the time we migrate to Vista, Internet Explorer will be deployed as well.
            Microsoft Office 2007: UIS will schedule a planned implementation for this new version of Microsoft Office, but we recommend waiting until summer of 2008 to make this our standard. This product will have a large impact on those of you who teach in the labs and we realize you need time to plan your classes and need to order textbooks in advance. The primary reasons we recommend waiting are listed here:
            1. Software application compatibility testing: As was stated before regarding the Vista OS, there are many software applications that Shawnee State University uses on campus, in both the offices and the labs that must be tested before we proceed with any migration. The CX (CARS) administrative system integrates with the Office Suite and these interfaces must be tested. As we are testing, we may be in contact with you if your department uses special software that integrates with the Office Suite or if you integrate discipline-specific software with Office in your classes so that you can participate in the testing of your applications to ensure they are working properly in conjunction with the new Office 2007. Some of these software packages may even release new versions tailored to work with Office 2007 and we will need to work with you to upgrade to those as well.
            2. Uniformity across campus: Keeping one version of the Office suite as a standard across campus is helpful to both employees and students. Sending attachments and working on shared files is much more user friendly when everyone is using the same version. For students it can be extremely confusing if they are learning one version in a class and then go to another area only to find a different version of the same software. For these reasons we feel it is important for our campus if we maintain one standard version across campus. Consequently, we hope everyone is agreeable to the timeline we propose.
            3. Time to prepare new courses: Past versions of the Office package have provided additional features or made minor changes to the functions over time. This new version is a major re-write of the software and there are many significant changes in this version. We would like to allow you adequate time to become acquainted with the software and evaluate new textbooks before it is installed in the labs. If you wish to have the software installed in your office to allow you to prepare for your classes, it will be available for installation beginning Winter Break (December 2007).
            As we develop our migration plan, we realize there are also drawbacks to not moving forward with the newest version. Primarily, we anticipate conversion issues for users already running Office 2007 at home. Those running Office 2007 at home will encounter these conversion issues if they bring files to campus that were created or edited using Office 2007 and we are still running Office 2003. Microsoft offers a conversion tool which will allow users to open and edit an Office 2007 file using Office 2003. UIS will install this tool on all campus systems as a standard feature.
            If you have any feedback, questions, or concerns regarding any of these products, please send an email to helpdesk@shawnee.edu or contact Jaime Madden @ 3204. As we stated earlier, we invite you to provide us with feedback regarding these proposed plans especially if it will impact your teaching environment.

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(Article by Rebecca Cox, communications specialist)

            In a story filled with faith, goodwill, and an abundance of airline mileage, two Shawnee State University professors have adopted toddlers from China. Recently, Terry Hapney, SSU senior instructor, communication/journalism, and his wife, Claudette have become the new parents of a two-year-old girl, Josie Claire Siyan Hapney. This adoption was aided with the help of Doug Darbro, Ph.D., SSU assistant professor, mathemathics.
            Darbro and his wife, Tanya, have adopted from China on two occasions, and are now the parents of Sadie Mei Yuan Darbro, a three-year-old girl, and Bailey Lin Nan Darbro, who is also three, and affectionately goes by “Nan-nan.”
            When speaking of their adoption, one continually surfacing question is “Why China?” Both fathers point towards divine intervention as a deciding factor in the adoption process.
            “We are very strong in our faith and we have prayed about it and it seemed like we were being led to China,” Hapney said. “It seemed like it was becoming very easy for us to understand where we were supposed to go.”
            “It was a big benefit to Claudette and myself to be taken under the wing of Doug and his wife, Tanya,” Hapney said. “They were invaluable in helping us along the way. They have been there twice.”
            The Darbros decided on Chinese adoption after some odd occurrences, Doug Darbro said. When discussing the prospect of another child, they were not certain of the path in which to proceed. After having dinner in Lexington, they were driving home, made a stop, pulled into a parking lot, and there was a Caucasian couple with two Asian children.
           The following Tuesday, Oprah presented a special on adoption from China. On Thursday, the National Geographic Channel aired a special on adoption from China. The following Sunday, the topic was The Lexington Herald Leader’s main story.
            Finally, the couple went to Florida, and there was another Caucasian couple at the airport with two Asian children. The decision was made immediately.
            “Ok! I get the point. We turned in our application three days later,” Darbro said.
            Another deciding factor in both adoptions was the moral nature of the action.
            “Why should we bring more life onto this planet when there are hundreds of millions of children?” Darbro said.
            The one child per family policy of China creates an abundance of unwanted baby girls each year. The daughters of the Hapney and Darbro families along with thousands of other Chinese girls, were deserted on the streets of China.
            Hapney’s daughter was left on the sidewalk outside of the social welfare institute; she was equipped with a bottle, a piece of a diaper, and an old shirt. Sadie Darbro was left on a step of a civil affairs’ office, while Nan-nan was left in an alley near an orphanage.
            The adoption agencies will hold the children for two weeks, while placing ads in newspapers. Chinese newspapers are overflowing with pictures of abandoned children.
            When discussing memorable moments, both fathers claimed the “gotcha’ moment” to be a high point. The “gotcha’ moment” is adoption lingo for the moment when the family is finally paired with their new child.
            “Seeing our daughter for the first time was every bit as exciting as when we had both of our sons at King’s Daughters Medical Center,” Hapney said.
            Among the many fascinating tales shared by the fathers is the odd play of names and numbers with the Darbro family. When scrolling through the adoption list, Darbro spotted “Nan-nan,” which was his name for his grandmother. Upon further investigation, it turns out his new daughter has the same birthday as his grandmother. The Darbro family was told she was theirs on his grandfather’s birthday, and they left for China on their grandparent’s wedding anniversary. To add to the bizarre twist of events, the Darbro family stayed in room 1726 at a hotel. Darbro’s father was born on the 17th, and his mother was born on the 26th.
            Both fathers credit their wives as being central to the adoption process.
            “Our wives were wonderful through this and handled every crossed “t” and dotted “i.” The amount of paperwork is amazing,” Hapney said.
            Hapney and Darbro said the first step is to submit an application to an adoption agency approved by the Center of Chinese Adoption Affairs in Beijing. The applicants must meet the criteria through home-study checks, in addition to a criminal background check. There are medical checks, a review of financial status, immigration status, questions concerning why the couple wishes to adopt from China and what their intentions are for the child.
            Darbro said all of this information is necessary to continue the process.
            “What you are doing here is you are putting together what is called your dossier, and that’s just a book of your family,” he said.
            Hapney and Darbro both said the dossier is shipped to China for further consideration, and then there is more waiting. If the couple is approved, they are matched with a child from China and a photo is sent to the couple, called a referral. After acceptance, the couple officially tells China they accept the child, and then the couple must go through travel approval. Booking hotels and airlines begins.
            The couple tours a few days in China and they spend a week in the province of the child, fill out more paperwork, bond with the child and to stay in the area from which the child resided for most of her life. After all of this, the child loses China residency and becomes an American. The completion of the process concludes with a visit to the family within six months and another within one year.
            Concerning the future, both fathers plan to take their daughters to China if and when questions about their native country arise.
            For any questions concerning the adoption process, contact Hapney at thapney@shawnee.edu or Darbro at ddarbro@shawnee.edu.
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            Dennis Mead, Ph.D., has been named chair of the Shawnee State University teacher education advisory council. The advisory council includes educators and community members from all levels and provides input and guidance for the university’s education programs. Meade has served on council since 1992.
            “We are very fortunate to have Dr. Meade assume this leadership role with our advisory council. His regional leadership and active involvement in educational issues P-16 make him uniquely suited for this role,” said Paul Madden, Ph.D., chair and assistant professor, Department of Teacher Education at SSU. “Dr. Meade has served as an advisor and supporter of SSU and we appreciate his willingness to take on this leadership role.”
            Meade has been an educator for nearly 30 years and presently serves as superintendent of Minford Local Schools. He began his tenure with the Minford school system in 1983 as the principal at the high school. In 1986, he became superintendent of the school system.
            Meade earned his doctorate in educational administration from the University of Cincinnati in 1982. Morehead State University granted him a Masters in Education in adult and continuing education with a specialty in community counseling in 1974. History and sociology were his major and minor at Morehead State University where he earned his bachelor’s degree in 1973.
            The goal of the teacher education advisory council, Madden said, is to provide input to and support for the department of teacher education at SSU and its programs.
            “This group of teachers, school administrators, area agencies and higher education faculty serve as critical friends of the department and its programs,” Madden said. “As noted by our last national accreditation review, the university’s strong relationship with the schools and the agencies of the region is a hallmark of our programs. The input of the advisory council assists the department with ongoing planning and program development to meet the diverse needs of our region.”
            Others assuming leadership positions with the advisory council are: Elinda Boyles, Teresa Schweinsberg and Andrew Feight. Boyles is the director of Human Resources at SSU and is the president of the Greenup County Board of Education. She will chair the Field and Clinical Experiences Committee. Schweinsberg teaches students with hearing impairments and deafness at Green Local Schools and will chair the Program Development Committee. Andrew Feight, Ph.D., is an associate professor of history at SSU and will chair the Technology Committee.
            “We are very fortunate that these educators and all our council members are willing to give additional time to the improvement of teacher education in the southeastern region of Ohio,” Madden said.

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(Article by Rebecca Cox, communications specialist)

            On March 14-18, Shawnee State University’s theater department will present “Bus Stop,” a play about laughter, love and life’s lessons, at the Kahl Studio Theater in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. The production is dedicated to the memory of Marilyn Monroe, in honor of her 1956 performance in Bus Stop.
            On March14, a free production will be presented, while all other shows cost $5. On March18 the understudies will be featured.
            “William Inge’s delightful romantic comedy is the story of four passengers and a bus driver stranded at Grace’s Diner between Kansas City and Topeka by a snow storm,” said Jim Hayes, M.F.A, I.A., senior instructor, theater. “The comedy is packed with funny situations and raucous characters, each with something to learn about life, love, and most of all, themselves.”
            The cast includes Ashley Sparks, Melanie Manchester, Charles “Chaz” Farley, Kristy LeShae King, Stewart Perkins, Evan Musin, Colonel Bill Sanders, and Mike Purdy.
            Understudies include Brittany Williams, Carla Chaney, Matt Kilmer and Philip Dorst.
            Handling the production of the play will be: Jim Hayes, production coordinator/director; Leo Schlosser, technical director/ lighting/set design and construction; Nathan Wheeler, production assistant; Dani Gilstrap, stage manager; Renea Canady, costumes/props; Michael Kinker, set pieces and props. Eileen Perry, Greg Kiser, Philip Dorst, Rachel Robertson, Carla Chaney, Kasey Todt and Lora Barnhart are also members of the production staff.
            Upcoming events for the SSU theater are “Plays for a New Millennium” on May 3-4, and “The Nerd” on May 24-26.
            For ticket information, contact the McKinley Box Office at (740) 351-3600.

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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)
(Photo by Jeff Perez, director of the office of communications and legislative affairs)

            Keegan Rathkamp takes advantage of the warmer weather to practice his “slacklining” in front of Massie Hall.
            A recent transfer from the University of Cincinnati, Rathkamp is a junior majoring in sports management at Shawnee.
            “I worked at a climbing gym in Cincinnati but transferred here because I wanted to run for [Shawnee State track coach] Eric Putnam,” Rathkamp said. “I really like the school. It’s a great place.”
            Slacklining is similar to tightroping, but uses nylon tubular webbing, so it’s much bouncier, Rathkamp explained.
            “It’s pretty big in California,” he said. “I’ve been working at Yosemite in northern California during the summer and that’s where I learned how to climb and slackline. People normally learn barefoot. Skate shoes and indoor soccer shoes are really good, too.”
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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)
(Photo by Jeff Perez, director of the office of communications and legislative affairs)

            Keegan Rathkamp takes advantage of the warmer weather to practice his “slacklining” in front of Massie Hall.
            A recent transfer from the University of Cincinnati, Rathkamp is a junior majoring in sports management at Shawnee.
            “I worked at a climbing gym in Cincinnati but transferred here because I wanted to run for [Shawnee State track coach] Eric Putnam,” Rathkamp said. “I really like the school. It’s a great place.”
            Slacklining is similar to tightroping, but uses nylon tubular webbing, so it’s much bouncier, Rathkamp explained.
            “It’s pretty big in California,” he said. “I’ve been working at Yosemite in northern California during the summer and that’s where I learned how to climb and slackline. People normally learn barefoot. Skate shoes and indoor soccer shoes are really good, too.”
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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

            Shawnee State University’s Alumni Association is seeking nominations for the Alumnus of Tomorrow Award. The annual award is given by the Alumni Association to a graduating student who shows great promise toward his or her career goals and who has displayed commitment to his or her individual endeavors — academic, social and personal.
            “We’re welcoming nominations from anyone, from faculty, staff, administration, people in the public, alumni, anyone who knows of a worthy candidate for the alumnus of tomorrow award,” said Angela Henderson, assistant director of development and alumni affairs at SSU. “We give the award each year to a graduating student who we think is just going to tear the world up when he or she gets out there.”
            The nominee must be eligible to participate in the 2007 commencement, be active in campus and community activities and be in good academic standing.
            “The Alumnus of Tomorrow Award is very special because it recognizes our future and the future successes that we know this person will bring,” Henderson said.
            According to Henderson, last year’s Alumnus of Tomorrow, Jared Bentley, is currently in medical school and hopes to return to the area and specialize in emergency medicine.
            “We’ve had great winners in the past and I know that this year’s will be a great winner as well,” said Henderson.
            The deadline for nominations is March 31. The winner will be chosen by the Alumni Awards Committee and will be announced at the Evening of Honors on May 17, when the award also will be given.
            To nominate an alumnus or for more information about this award, contact Angela Henderson at (740) 351-3182 or e-mail her at ahenderson@shawnee.edu.

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 (Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

            Non-traditional students attending classes at Shawnee State University can receive some help adjusting to the rigors of college by attending a one-day workshop sponsored by the Student Success Center on March 30 from 9:30 a.m. until noon in the Success Center.
            “Non-traditional students gain a sense of confidence by attending the bridge program. It provides an extended orientation for them,” said Teresa Redoutey, coordinator of academic support. “Students will also get more individualized attention and will receive instruction in basic computer log-on and for navigating the shawnee.edu and Blackboard sites.”
            Redoutey said the instructor for the program will be Jim Weaver, the Disabilities Coordinator in the Student Success Center. Participants will also receive instruction in family and work resources, career options, time management, study skills and resource availability.
            The program has room for 20 students. For more information or to enroll, call the Student Success Center at (740) 351-3130.
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 (Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

            If you are interested in joining Shawnee State University’s community choir this spring, sign-ups are already underway and director Shirley Crothers-Marley wants those who are interested to begin attending rehearsals on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. in room 130 of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.
            “The spring quarter performance will be titled ‘From Opera to Pop’ and will include music from grand opera, light opera/operetta, Broadway, and popular standards,” Crothers-Marley said. “There will also be some choruses from Gilbert and Sullivan that audiences will recognize, as well as solos and ensembles from several periods of stage music.”
            The SSU community choir will meet on Tuesday’s beginning April 3 from 7 to 10 p.m. in room 130 of the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. The course is offered through the Office of University Outreach Services and can be taken as either a credit or non-credit option.
            For more information about the SSU Community Choir or to schedule an audition, call Shirley Crothers-Marley at (740) 351-3577 or the Office of University Outreach Services at (740) 351-3274.
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 (Photo by Tracy Conn, Secretary Office of Communications and Legislative Affairs)

Approximately 270 Shawnee State University students and alumni attended the 8th annual Career Expo sponsored by the Office of Career Services and the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission on Tuesday, March 13 in the James A. Rhodes Athletic Center. 90 employers from throughout the region set up business displays and talked informally with job seekers or interviewed prospective employees during the event.
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(Cutline and photo by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

Pictured are Nicole Eveland, a senior from Athens, Ohio, and Rhett Starr, a senior from Frankfort, Ohio.

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(Cutline and photo by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

Shawnee State University’s students and faculty participated in a Red Cross Blood Drive on March 14 in the James A. Rhodes Athletic Center.

Pictured are Michelle Lindsay, a freshman at SSU from Orrville, Ohio, and Red Cross employee Karen Stoneroad of Ironton, Ohio.


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(Article by Rebecca Cox, communications specialist)

            On March 23 and 24, Shawnee State University will be hosting the first ever Celebration of Scholarship of occupational therapy graduate students and faculty in the Micklethwaite Banquet Room, in the University Center. The event is being sponsored by the William J. & Patricia J. Richards Lecture Series through the SSU Development Foundation.
            The occupational therapy Celebration of Scholarship Conference is modeled after the Midwest Dean’s Research Conference, which is a twenty-year-old evening celebration and full day conference for occupational therapy graduate students and faculty to promote research in the profession.
            “The event will provide an opportunity for graduate students to share their work, including papers and other presentations,” said Ginnie Moore, director, university outreach services.
     The keynote speaker, Carol Haertlein Sells, Ph.D, OTR, FAOTA will present “Occupational Therapy Research; From Consumers to Scholars” on March 23 at 7 p.m. Sells is a research scientist for the Center of Addiction and Behavioral Health Research. Over the last 20 years, her research has appeared in over 18 major publications.
            On March 24, at 11-12 p.m., a panel discussion will feature “Models for Education of Researchers in the Profession.” The panel will include Jeffrey Boss, department chair, occupational therapy department, Gannon University; Candace Beitman, dean of school of occupational therapy, University of Indianapolis; and Ed Kehres, assistant professor of occupational therapy, Shawnee State University.
            For additional information, contact Moore at (740) 351-3274, toll free at (866) 672-8778, or by e-mail at gmoore@shawnee.edu.
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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

            The Shawnee State University College Chorus and Chorale, comprising Shawnee State University students and post-secondary students from the area, would like to invite you to its 2007 winter quarter concert, “American Treasure.” The March 18 concert begins at 4 p.m. in the Howland Recital Hall in SSU’s Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.
            “The audience can expect examples of what we call chorale art music,” said Stan Workman, conductor of the SSU college chorus and chorale. “The earliest pieces date from the Revolutionary Era and the final pieces come from the last 20 years. There’s quite a range of music. A lot of the early pieces they wrote were to teach people not only music, but grammar and religion.”
          The core piece of the concert will be “Frostianna,” which includes seven poems from the American poet Robert Frost.
           “Many of the poems are very familiar to most people and include ‘Stopping by Wood on a Snowy Evening’ and ‘The Road Not Taken’,” Workman said.
            With the exception of one piece in French, the program has a decidedly American touch.
            “I think it’s important we celebrate what we have here and our own country’s repertoire,” said Workman. “A lot of people don’t realize that Americans have a great tradition in music that they need to be proud of. We are a young nation, but we have a lot to be thankful for.”
            The performance is free, open to the public and will last approximately an hour and a half. For more information, contact Workman at (740) 351-3118.

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(Article by Monica Bradbury, communications specialist)

            SSU’s University Outreach Services is sponsoring an ACT test prep course, beginning March 19. Each five-session course will cover math, English, writing, reading and science reasoning.
            “Preparing for the ACT can increase test scores that are important for gaining entry into the college of your choice and in receiving scholarships,” said Ginnie Moore, director of University Outreach Services.
            The sessions are from 6 to 8:30 p.m. and students can choose between either the first or second series for the following subjects:
            · Math on March 19 or May 7 with John Whitaker, Ph.D., assistant professor of mathematical sciences;
            · English on March 21 or May 9 with Michael Powell, Ph.D., senior instructor in the department of arts and humanities;
            · Writing on March 26 or May 14 with Powell;
            · Science reasoning on March 28 or May 16 with guest Rebecca Steele, an adjunct professor in the natural sciences department; and,
            · Reading on April 2 or May 21 with Powell.
            The first series helps students prepare for the April 14 test date and the May series prepares students for the June 9 test date. The cost is $24 for each subject or $96 for one entire series. The fee includes a practice test booklet and other materials. Registration is available until the day before each class. The class locations will be announced when the student registers. Payment must be received no later than 48 hours before the session date.
            “Everyone gets nervous about taking this important test,” Moore said. “However, it is a proven fact that taking a prep class helps you improve your score.”
            To register or for more information, call Ginnie Moore at (740) 351-3274 or toll free (866) 672-8778.

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(Article by Monica Bradbury, Communications Specialist)

            The Shawnee State University Scholarship Committee has awarded the James B. Miller scholarships to Stephanie Fletcher of Portsmouth and Sarah Ralstin of Otway for the 2006-2007 academic year.
            The James B. Miller scholarship was established by OSCO Industries, Inc., Dorothy Miller and Ward Miller during SSU’s first capital campaign in 1991 to benefit students majoring in business. It was created as a memorial to James Miller, a long-time associate of OSCO and a local attorney.
            The scholarship assists university sophomores, juniors, or seniors with good character who reside in southern Ohio or northern Kentucky, seeking either an associate or bachelor’s degree in business.
            Fletcher returns to Shawnee State to major in accounting. She is married and has a 9-year-old son, Matthew, and a 6-year-old daughter, Makayla.
            Ralstin, daughter of David and Priscilla Ralstin, is a 2003 graduate of Northwest High School majoring in healthcare administration. She has received a Northwest High School Honor Award. In high school, she served as yearbook editor. Ralstin is also active in Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and volunteers at Northwest Elementary School.
            The SSU Development Foundation administers these scholarship funds. Individuals or organizations interested in establishing a scholarship can contact the SSU Development Foundation at (740) 351-3284.

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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

            Nearly 400 participants are expected to take part in the 17th annual District 14 Science Day at Shawnee State University on March 24.
            One of 16 district science competitions sponsored by the Ohio Academy of Science and hosted by colleges and universities across the state of Ohio, Shawnee District 14 Science Day annually attracts students from public or private schools in grades 5-12, from Adams, Brown, Clermont, Lawrence, Pike, and Scioto counties.
            The competition gives students the opportunity to develop independent or team scientific research projects which may lead to an opportunity to compete at the State Science Day, Buckeye Science and Engineering Fair, or the INTEL International Science and Engineering Fair.
            “I think science day gives students something extra that’s missing in science curricula in grades 7-12,” said Jeff Bauer, Ph.D, professor or geology and judging chair for district science day. “Here, you have students who are working with mentors and learning how to ‘do’ science. We see a number of cases where students are involved year after year that develop such wonderful skills and communication through that process.”
            Judy Meeker, project director of Southern Ohio Youth Region STEM and Foreign Language Academy, noted the chance to earn scholarships.
            “Last year, our students that went to State Science Day received many awards and scholarships, of which the cash value was well over $100,000,” she said.
            According to Meeker, the Shawnee District 14 Science Day benefits from experienced volunteer-judges.
            “Many of our judges have been with us annually for the last 15 years. That gives us consistent judging.”
            There are 13 different categories for grades 7-12 competing equally and two broader categories for grades 5 and 6. Only those students in grades 7-12 can qualify to go the state competition, Meeker said.
            “Most districts feel it is important to invite a limited number of fifth and sixth graders who have done very well in either local or county fair, to give them the experience to see what it’s like,” Meeker said. “We hope it will encourage them to continue doing science research projects as they get older. We do give them awards for first, second and third place. “
            According to Meeker, each district has a certain number of students that they can send to the state competition. District 14 normally sends between 35 and 45 students and it costs each student $45 to register for State Science Day. However, District 14 receives sponsorships from business and industry around the four-county area. The donations are used to pay for students to go to State, for mailing fees, and for printing materials.
            Lunch will be provided for the judges, while students and other participants are free to bring their lunches or eat in the Bear’s Den. The awards ceremony begins at 4 p.m. in the Flohr Lecture Hall in the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts.
            For more information, contact University Outreach Services at (740) 351-3274 or (866) 672-8778.

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(Article by Mistie Cook Spicer, communications coordinator)

            The Academy Award-winning documentary on global warming, “An Inconvenient Truth,” will be shown in the Flohr Lecture Hall at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Mar. 7 at SSU.
            According to Christy Renner, an environmental law and policy adjunct professor at SSU, the film presents the issues associated with the global warming debate.
            “On one side of the discussion, you have prominent scientists who advocate man-made carbon-dioxide-generated global warming and on the other side of the discussion scientists whose lives are dedicated to research into the complex physics and chemistry of the earth’s atmosphere,” Renner said.
            The documentary is directed by Davis Guggenheim and presented by former Vice President Al Gore.
            The film premiered at the 2006 Sundance Film Festival and opened in New York and Los Angeles on May 24, 2006. It is the third highest-grossing documentary in the United States to date and both Gore and Paramount Classics, the film’s distributor have pledged proceeds from the film to future educational campaigns about climate change.
            The documentary according to Renner is a must-see for those “waiting on the world to change,” quoting a line from one of her favorite songs from John Mayer.
            “I believe the new millennium generation which is described as different from previous in exhibiting a strong need for individuality in their self-expression, and displaying a deep attachment and respect for family and social conscience is going to have a passion for what is right, and no matter what side of the debate they are on will want to be the next environmental leaders,” Renner said.
            “An Inconvenient Truth” is also the title of a book by Gore, which for two weeks in 2006 was at the top of the New York Times bestseller list.
            The SSU Environmental Engineering and Environmental Science group is hosting the presentation of the documentary on campus.
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(Cutline and photo by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)

           Nearly 120 Golden Bears gathered to enjoy brunch at Shawnee State University on Friday, March 16 with a St. Patrick’s Day theme.
            Golden Bears are residents of Scioto County, aged 60 and over, who are able to use the facilities on campus free of charge and participate in a number of activities such as trips, monthly bowling outings and special dinners.
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(Article by Monica J. Bradbury, communications specialist)
 

            Starting college can be an exciting but nervous experience, but the Student Success Center at Shawnee State University plans to curb those fears with its second annual spring quarter orientation on March 27 at 2 p.m.
            “Spring orientation includes a student session in which students can connect with one another and connect with some resources here at the university,” said Dale Taylor, director of SSU’s Student Success Center. “At Shawnee, we realize that education is important and represents a great investment; therefore, we want to present our new students with the best chance of success through the orientation process. At that time, they will be exposed to important academic policies and procedures as well as connecting with faculty and staff.”
            New students will participate in tours, discussions and advising. Refreshments will also be provided. Students will have one-on-one interaction with both Shawnee students and faculty in order to provide them with a sense of community.
            “We hope to give students a head start on their experience at Shawnee State and to make them knowledgeable and informed students,” Taylor said.
            Students should register ahead of time so that SSU can meet their needs by calling the Student Success Center at (740) 351-3594 or register online at www.shawnee.edu.
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            For three generations, members of the Kricker family have been active in the Portsmouth community, leading by example through their volunteerism and participation in civic works of benefit to the region.
            With a major contribution to Shawnee State University, the third and last generation has taken steps to ensure the Kricker name will continue to be associated with service to the community.
            Retired businessman Jim Kricker has pledged $1.25 million to Shawnee State University’s “Poised for Tomorrow” capital campaign. This gift is in addition to the $1.8 million Kricker donated in 1996, cementing his status as the largest individual donor in Shawnee State’s history.
            Considering Shawnee State’s impact on the region, Kricker said his reasons for continuing to support the university are obvious.
            “The University is so great for our community and area. It promotes educational opportunities for people who otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to go to college. And Shawnee State is educating people for the kind of jobs we need for economic expansion. With this gift, I can help educate those students.”
            Kricker has chosen a variety of gift options for his philanthropy to Shawnee State. His first major contribution was in the form of a charitable remainder trust, which allows individuals to receive payments from the designated funds during their lifetime, leaving Shawnee State the ultimate beneficiary.
            For his gift to Poised for Tomorrow Kricker made a pledge, which he plans to fulfill by making Shawnee State the beneficiary of various retirement accounts. Both these strategies allow Kricker to continue enjoying the benefits of his assets not to mention providing substantial tax saving opportunities.
            Susan Warsaw, executive director of development at SSU, explained that knowing Kricker’s wishes now is a tremendous benefit to the university.
            “Happily, Jim informed us of this gift so we can count it toward the campaign total and make future plans for its use,” Warsaw said. “Most importantly, it allows us to personally thank Jim for this wonderful gift.”
            Shawnee State University president Rita Rice Morris noted the campus is fortunate to have such a loyal supporter.
           “Jim Kricker’s generosity speaks volumes about the kind of person he is. He cares deeply about this community and he wants to see it continue to grow and prosper.”
            Frank Waller, the Poised for Tomorrow general co-chair, said Kricker sets a good example for his peers. “My wife, Janis, and I have learned from Jim how worthwhile it is to commit to a charity you believe in. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him for many years and he is truly one of the community’s best friends and supporters.”
            Kricker said he believes that it is important for people to give back. “If we are fortunate in our talents, we are obliged to share them. By the same token, if we are blessed with the capacity, we have a moral obligation to be generous.”
            And Kricker adds that giving is truly better than receiving. “The real pleasure is in the giver. It makes me happier than anyone else.”
           Poised for Tomorrow is a $12 million capital campaign to support a broad array of campus initiatives, including undergraduate research, new technologies, specialized studies, faculty development, scholarships, enhanced clinical experiences and an enhanced quality of life for the region.
            Anyone wanting more information about Poised for Tomorrow can call the Development Office at (740) 351-3284 or visit the university’s website at www.shawnee.edu.
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